From Jersey City: Manhattan Jet Ski Tour

Taking to the waters of New York Harbor on a jet ski might just be one of the most exhilarating ways to see the city’s iconic sights. This guided 1-hour jet ski tour offered by Sea the City combines excitement, stunning views, and a fresh perspective on Manhattan’s skyline. From the Jersey City side, you get the chance to zoom past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center — all while feeling the wind in your hair and the spray on your face.

What we really love about this experience is how accessible it makes seeing NYC’s most famous landmarks from a totally different angle. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers, water lovers, or anyone looking to add a memorable thrill to their trip. That said, with only an hour on the water, it’s a quick burst of fun, and it’s not ideal for those with limited mobility or those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing experience. Still, if you’re craving excitement and incredible views, this tour is a winner.

This adventure suits those who want a hands-on activity rather than just sightseeing from afar. It’s also a fantastic option for visitors who want something unique and memorable, especially if they’re comfortable in or around water. Now, let’s get into the details and find out what makes this jet ski trip stand out — and how it stacks up for your NYC visit.

• Close-up views of landmarks: Get near the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety while pointing out key sights.
• Accessible for beginners: No prior jet ski experience needed; safety briefing provided.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Photo/video options: Opportunity to purchase professional images of your jet ski adventure.
• Great value: For $223, you get a memorable, adrenaline-filled hour with stunning photo opportunities.

We found that the best part of this tour is how you can get remarkably close to Manhattan’s most famous landmarks. While many city tours stay on land or from a distance, jet skiing allows you to feel the power of the water and to see these sights from a truly unique vantage point. Imagine snapping a selfie with the Statue of Liberty just feet away or watching the Brooklyn Bridge loom overhead as you zip around the harbor.

The experience is carefully guided by professionals, like Curtis, who are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. According to reviews, guides like Curtis are “the best,” making sure everyone feels confident and safe, even if it’s your first time on a jet ski. They also take photos and videos during the ride, so you’ll have plenty of chances to relive the adventure afterward — a nice bonus especially if you plan to share your experience on social media.

Another highlight is the stunning skyline views. With the city stretching out around you, it’s a different way to appreciate how expansive, vibrant, and impressive Manhattan’s backdrop truly is. The hour-long tour duration is perfect for a quick, fun escape from city streets, and it’s priced at $223 per person, which we think offers good value considering the experience and size of the group.

Upon arrival at the marina (just a 10-minute ferry ride from Downtown Manhattan on the New Jersey side), you’ll check in and receive your safety gear: a life jacket, wetsuit if you wish, and a locker for your belongings. The safety briefing is thorough, covering both the operation of the jet ski and safety precautions, making it accessible even for beginners.

Once on the water, you’ll be guided by your instructor, who will take you past landmark sights such as the Statue of Liberty, offering up-close views usually only seen from far away. This proximity is what reviewers rave about — “Great experience, fab way to see the sights,” says Jackie, emphasizing how memorable it was to be so close to these symbols of NYC.

The guides also assist with capturing photos or videos if you purchase their packages, ensuring you don’t miss out on documenting the fun. Expect to spend about 15-20 minutes on the jet ski, with the rest of the hour dedicated to the briefing, safety checks, and photo opportunities.

Some reviewers mention that the guide, Curtis, made a significant difference by being friendly and engaging, which added to the sense of safety and fun. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) means you get plenty of individual attention, making the experience more relaxed and personalized.

This tour is designed for adventurous beginners and experienced water enthusiasts alike, but it’s important to note a few key points:

• You don’t need prior jet ski experience — the safety briefing covers operation basics.
• You must be at least 18 years old to operate and at least 12 years old to ride (with a parent or guardian if under 18).
• All participants must weigh less than 350 lbs (or a combined weight of less than 350 lbs if sharing a jet ski).
• Participants should feel comfortable in and around water; this is not suitable for those with limited mobility.
• Phones are not allowed during the ride for safety reasons, but you can purchase photos afterward.

Transportation-wise, the marina’s proximity to Manhattan via ferry makes it convenient, but you should plan ahead for ferry schedules. The tour lasts exactly 1 hour, so it’s easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day.

Pricing at $223 per person reflects the value of the experience — a combination of thrilling activity, proximity to landmarks, and professional guidance. For many, this is a cost-effective way to add adrenaline and unique photos to their NYC trip.

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Anya calls Curtis “the best guide you can imagine,” and others mention how the experience was “absolutely unreal.” The feedback underscores how this tour isn’t just about riding a jet ski — it’s about creating a memorable, fun, and safe adventure with knowledgeable support.

The photo and video packages also get high praise; many say it’s worth purchasing to capture the moments of your ride, especially since you’ll be zipping past iconic sights so close you can almost reach out and touch them.

Another notable point is that this experience is highly rated at 4.8 out of 5, based on 77 reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction among participants.

The Jersey City Manhattan Jet Ski Tour offers a thrilling, memorable way to see New York City from a different perspective. It combines expert guidance, fantastic views, and a dose of adrenaline, making it ideal for travelers wanting a fun, active experience that stands out from typical land-based sightseeing. While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or young children, it’s perfect for adventurers, water lovers, and anyone eager to add an exciting story to their NYC trip.

You’ll leave with unforgettable photos, a sense of achievement, and an appreciation for the city’s skyline like never before. Just plan ahead for ferry schedules, and be prepared to fully enjoy this brisk but exhilarating ride on New York Harbor.

If you’re someone who craves adventure and wants to see NYC’s landmarks from a close-up, this is a fantastic choice. It’s well-suited for first-time jet skiers, thanks to the safety briefing and guided support, and the small group setup ensures personalized attention. The experience offers a great balance of thrill and sightseeing, making it ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a memorable, Instagram-worthy adventure.

For those on a budget, the price of $223 is reasonable, considering it provides a full hour of guided activity plus stunning photo opportunities. If you’re after a tame, relaxed sightseeing tour, this might not be the best option, but if excitement and close-up views appeal, it’s a top contender.

FAQ

Do I need experience with jet skis?
No, prior jet ski experience isn’t required. The safety briefing will teach you everything needed to operate the jet ski confidently.

What is the minimum age to participate?
You must be at least 12 years old to ride a jet ski, with the operation limited to those 18 and older.

Can I share a jet ski with someone?
Yes, two people can share a jet ski, but their combined weight must be less than 350 lbs.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for people with limited mobility, as it involves water activity and requires comfort around water.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1 hour, including safety briefings, with roughly 15-20 minutes on the water.

What should I bring?
Bring a passport or ID, a credit card, and be prepared to leave cellphones behind for safety.

Are photos included?
No, photos and videos are an optional purchase available after the ride.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but it’s at the marina just 10 minutes by ferry from Downtown Manhattan on the New Jersey side.

Is transportation to the marina included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own ferry or transit to the marina.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This jet ski tour delivers an exciting, memorable slice of New York City that’s perfect for those seeking adventure, fantastic photo ops, and a fresh way to see iconic sights. Whether it’s your first time on a jet ski or just a new way to experience the harbor, it’s a ride worth considering.